Perfect July weather greeted Rotarians as they gathered for their weekly Portsmouth Country Club (PCC) luncheon. The meeting was promptly called to order by President Leo with a solid ring of the ceremonial bell. Rotarians proudly joined him as he led the Pledge of Allegiance. Cathy Nickerson directed the group in singing “America The Beautiful”. Visiting District Governor Andrew Glazier offered the invocation.
President Leo held off on the 4-Way Test until adjournment, as an inspirational closure of the meeting. So, for those individuals thinking he forgot (again), no he did not. He was in total control and doing things in his own distinctive way.
Guests introduced included: District Governor Andrew Glazier and his wife Pam Gray; Rabbi Ira Korinow, Past President of the Haverhill Rotary; Larry Marsolais from the Hampton Rotary; Brian Sullivan, President of the Newburyport Rotary, and his guest Dave Stuer of Rye; Nick Gray (guest of Caitlin Burke); Daniel Lyons (guest of Richard Lyons); JoAnn Burchuk (guest of Susan Gold); Betty Tamposi (guest of Stella Scamman)
Fine Master (FM) Neal Ouellette generated a healthy batch of fines, thereby freeing Rotarians of any cash reserves. Justin Finn was penalized for his telltale grimaces during the visit of a recent presidential candidate. Justin Gamester, clad in hot weather work clothes, was fined for his laidback look. Those at his table were also penalized for his outfit, and for the fact they didn’t appear much better. In the spirit of equal opportunity, Rotarians professionally outfitted with shirts, jackets and ties also got fined. Hardly a soul was spared. Perhaps some would say the FM went to new creative “lows” to meet his fine financial quota. Like charging those poor souls that have undergone surgery recently or within the last five years. Weren’t the medical bills enough? All fines were bestowed and paid-up in good fun.
It was a day with lots of Happy Bucks! Among them, Basil Richardson has a new grandson to love. Dan Hoefle survived marrying off his daughter during the heatwave. Tricia Cummings will be embarking on college visits with her daughter Grace. Donna Lewallen’s daughter has impressively graduated with an advanced nursing degree. Congrats to all!
The week’s 50/50 drawing of a whopping $37 was claimed by “Rotation’s Music Legend” John Rice. Unfortunately, he did not win the $75 bonus bucks because he did not have a match.
Nancy Clayburgh received robust applause during General Announcements. She was impressive as the PCC messenger asking Rotarians to NOT park on the lawn. Use the marked parking spots, she pleaded, even if you are late and have to walk a distance. Joanie Dickinson gave thanks for the collected can tops supporting Interact. Leonard Seagren shared Piscataqua Maritime Commission fellowship opportunities. He offered information on a fundraising Beer Fest and the upcoming Sail Portsmouth activities.
A standing ovation greeted District Governor Andrew Glazer as he took to the podium. Andy may be the newly minted DG, but he is a Rotarian’s Rotarian. He and his wife Pam are multiple Paul Harris Fellows, major donors and members of the Rotary Foundation Bequest Society. He thanked the club for all that it has done in the community. He encouraged spreading the word on the numerous contributions that Rotarians complete locally and globally. He suggested increasing support from non-Rotarians so even more can be done.
DG Andy urged members to get involved with Rotary travel opportunities, including work on projects in developing nations. He shared his own life changing travel experiences and the joy of making a difference.
A long-time believer in service, he has actively worked with and provided leadership assistance for several non-profits.
DG Andy talked about how Rotary is all about connecting. He challenged membership with the question: “How well do you really know your fellow Portsmouth Rotarians”? He urged everyone to increase their club member awareness and connection.
DG Andy announced huge changes in the upcoming District Conference scheduled for October 5
th . It will be a one day event held in Portland, Maine. This contrasts with prior District Conferences which were multi-day events. He is hopeful that the format change will make it more palatable for Rotarians to attend.
President Leo impressed his flock by closing the meeting with minutes to spare at 1:07 p.m. A good time was had by all!
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Notis, Log Writer
Chad Chadwick, Photographer
